Charlton set for takeover by Belgian millionaire

London: Championship strugglers Charlton Athletic confirmed on Saturday that they are in takeover talks with Belgian millionaire Roland Duchatelet.

Duchatelet, a renowned political activist who made his money in the electronics business, is reported by the Daily Mail to have agreed a £14 million ($23 million, 16.7 million euros) deal for the south London club.

Addicks chairman Michael Slater confirmed the news on the club`s official website on Saturday, stating: "Very constructive discussions are ongoing which we hope to conclude soon".

Duchatelet also owns Belgian league leaders Standard Liege, as well as founding the social liberal political party Vivant, who believe in a basic minimum wage for all.

The 67-year-old Belgian`s imminent purchase of Charlton follows the collapse last month of a proposed takeover by American sports franchise owner Josh Harris after talks had reached an advanced stage.

It had been reported that Charlton were in desperate need of new owners as London property developer Kevin Cash, who has been bankrolling the club, was no longer prepared to put in further funding.

The Addicks, who spent seven years in the Premier League before being relegated in 2007, are currently just four points off the Championship drop zone after recording one win in their last six league matches ahead of Sunday`s clash with Sheffield Wednesday.